Dementia

a general term for a group of neurological conditions that affect the brain and cause a loss of cognitive abilities

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function that is severe enough to interfere with daily activities and quality of life. It affects memory, thinking, problem-solving, and other mental abilities. Dementia is not a specific disease but a group of symptoms caused by various underlying conditions. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but other conditions can also lead to dementia.

Symptoms

• Memory Loss: Forgetting recently learned information, repeating questions, or forgetting names and faces.

• Confusion and Disorientation: Getting lost in familiar places, not recognizing familiar people or surroundings.

• Difficulty Communicating: Struggling to find the right words, repeating stories, or losing the thread of a conversation.

• Impaired Judgment and Decision-Making: Difficulty with planning, reasoning, or managing finances. Making poor decisions in everyday situations.

• Personality Changes: Becoming more anxious, withdrawn, or irritable. Mood swings and changes in social behavior.

• Motor Problems: In advanced stages, some forms of dementia, such as Parkinson’s-related dementia, can affect motor control, causing tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement.

• Difficulty Performing Daily Tasks: Struggling to complete tasks like cooking, cleaning, or managing personal care.

• Hallucinations or Delusions: In some types of dementia, such as Lewy body dementia, people may experience visual hallucinations or false beliefs.

Treatable causes of Dementia

While dementia is often associated with irreversible conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, there are some treatable causes of dementia. These conditions can mimic dementia but are caused by factors that can be managed or reversed with appropriate treatment. Addressing these underlying causes can sometimes significantly improve cognitive function or prevent further deterioration.

Symptoms